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Obtaining a Seaman’s Service Book in Ukraine After the Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 1000 — Top 5 Changes

The Seaman’s Service Book (SSB) is an essential document that confirms a sailor’s work experience, qualifications, and expertise. Without this document, it is impossible to officially work on ships or prove one’s professional activity. In 2024, Ukraine made changes to the procedure for obtaining the Seaman’s Service Book with the adoption of the Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 1000, effective August 30, 2024. This article outlines the changes compared to the previous procedure.

Key Changes:

  1. Application Submission:
    • Before Resolution No. 1000: The application was submitted in paper form through the Administration of Shipping or via postal operators.
    • After Resolution No. 1000: A new option has been introduced to submit the application online via the Diia Portal, using an electronic signature, making the process faster and more convenient for sailors.
  2. Application Processing Time:
    • Before Resolution No. 1000: The processing time for the application could vary from 10 business days to several weeks.
    • After Resolution No. 1000: A clear processing time has been established — 7 business days from the moment the application is submitted via the Diia Portal or in paper form.
  3. Issuance Time of the Seaman’s Service Book:
    • Before Resolution No. 1000: The issuance time could take up to 10 business days or longer, depending on the situation.
    • After Resolution No. 1000: The Seaman’s Service Book is issued within 1 business day after the decision is made.
  4. Electronic Notification:
    • Before Resolution No. 1000: Notifications of the readiness of the Seaman’s Service Book could be absent or communicated through paper channels.
    • After Resolution No. 1000: An electronic notification system has been introduced via the Diia Portal and email, speeding up the process of informing sailors about the readiness of their documents.
  5. Reasons for Rejection:
    • Before Resolution No. 1000: The reasons for rejection were not clearly defined.
    • After Resolution No. 1000: Clear reasons for rejection have been established, such as incomplete documentation or repeated errors in submission, making the process more transparent.

Conclusion

With the introduction of Resolution No. 1000, the process of obtaining a Seaman’s Service Book has become clearer and more convenient. In the next article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to obtain a Seaman’s Service Book in Ukraine under the new procedure established by the Cabinet of Ministers.